This summer I traveled to the United States to visit the San Diego Comicon. I got to meet two other Potter illustrators, Brian Selznik (left) and Kazu Kibuishi (centre). We all went up on stage and gave a talk and panel together discussing our process of illustrating J.K. Rowling’s world. I got to spend the day with Brian and Kazu, and they are both such lovely people. We signed books for several hours after that, and met lots of Potter fans. I want to thank everyone that waited so patiently on a warm day in San Diego.

This was my first Comicon, and it was an amazing experience. The atmosphere is just wonderful, everybody is in ‘fun’ mode, and there are so many fascinating events and demonstrations (I loved this prosthetic makeup demo). Also if you want to see original comic art from the past 50 years, this is a great place to visit. The highlight for me was meeting Richard Taylor from Weta Workshop, a hero of mine, and an exceptionally generous and friendly guy.

While in the States Louise and I visited San Francisco, and did events in Los Angeles, San Diego and New York. I have to say, the Americans are so incredibly welcoming and friendly. We really enjoyed our trip and have to thank Scholastic for looking after us so well. The art collections and Museums in California are jaw-dropping. Particularly the ethnographic collections. We spent a whole day in the Metropolitan Museum in New York. Louise and I loved the fashion exhibition. (good reference for the Yule Ball!)

Thanks again for those that came to see me talk, we had a wonderful time. California is a beautiful State, with INCREDIBLE food, and dazzling wildlife. New York has changed beyond all recognition since I last visited. Still a crazy, wonderful place –  maybe next time we won’t visit in July – boy it was hot.